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A Measure of Happiness Playlist

The songs below all influenced me while I was writing A Measure of Happiness.

“Slide” and “Iris” Goo Goo Dolls

Celeste and Zach connect over their shared affection for the Goo Goo Dolls. In the words of Celeste: “Rock on, baby.”

“Free Bird” Lynyrd Skynyrd

The song plays during a pivotal moment in Katherine’s past when she connects with another free bird and changes her life forever.

“Honesty” Billy Joel

A pivotal moment for Celeste. According to the song, “honesty” is such a lonely word—something Celeste belatedly discovers.

“Monday, Monday” The Mamas and the Papas

Here Katherine is thinking about the lack of guarantees and all she has to lose.

“Drive My Car” The Beatles

When distress renders Celeste speechless, she connects with Zach through music.

“Don’t Dream It’s Over” Crowded House

I don’t want to give anything away, but I promise you’ll enjoy discovering the story connection.

“I Would Die 4 U” Prince

Ditto! (Not included on the YouTube playlist.)

Praise for A MEASURE OF HAPPINESS

“In this absorbing, deeply emotional novel about family secrets, Lorrie Thomson shows us how love can sometimes feel like an obsession, how insults can slice beneath your skin and how impossible it is to keep your children safe from heartbreak. It's a breathless roller coaster of a book in the best sense. Page by lyric page, Thomson's characters unveil their darkest truths, demonstrating that having the courage to open our hearts to love is the true measure of happiness.”Holly Robinson, author of BEACH PLUM ISLAND and HAVEN LAKE

“Thomson’s ‘A Measure of Happiness’ is about many things – finding home, facing fears, and making choices among them. But more than anything, it’s the book you’ll reach for when you want to recall that perfect love can still be found in an imperfect world.”
Therese Walsh, author of THE MOON SISTERS